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This season, East meets West with new life breathed
into one of fashion's favorite fetishes. A sexy new
spin has been given to "Chinoiserie." Designers
as diverse as Prada, Gucci and Roberto Cavelli have
dazzled the catwalks with modern and alluring interpretations
of "Asian Exotic." These designs are as
far from the dull and overdyed Mao jackets as they
are from Chengonsanas housedress. The
Runway
Runways around the world have been infused with
the timeless beauty of the Asian motif. Imagine
sleek silhouettes draped in colourful silks and
slippery satins, brocaded or embossed with delicate
butterflies, cherry blossoms, and lotus flowers.
Many designs work with such sultry inspiration:
pencil skirts, cigarette pants, deep "V"
tailored jackets, Mandarin collared boxy shirts
and wraps. If you feel a little more daring and
adventurous, try draped kimonos (Boudoir-style by
Gucci) to ultra-short minis and coat dresses. To
add a little spice, look for hems that chime and
origami-like folds.
But, where would fashion really be if it were restricted
to catwalks and red carpets only? Don't despair!
Even the more subdued fashion girl can have your
piece of this pie. Just pick one standard item like
Prada's Mandarin-collared boxy shirt or a brocaded
mini and make that your focal point. The kimono
jacket teamed with black bootlegged pants or cigarette
legs, allows for an elegant femininity in the Asian
style. For a "sexy but safe" look, try
old lingerie tops with cigarette legs; this is great
for those steamy nights on the dance floor. Or,
use a simpler approach and accessorize. Find a brocaded
bag, satin stilettos, or a Chinese hair pin and
you are in vogue.
The counter-revolution has something for everyone.
As we are in Asia, we're in luck. The summer fashion
season has given us an easy trend to keep up with.
Just remember, try to avoid the urge to be "costumey."
Otherwise, have a little fun with it! |
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